Cannon's and redcoats at Tocal Homestead's Peek into the Past

Volunteer organiser at Tocal Homestead, Sandy Earle said that the event showed people what it was like to live in the Hunter back in the early 1800s. "The philosophy is to make the site come alive with all sorts of people and trades and food from days gone by," she said.

Overall the day was a huge success, according to the Homestead Coordinator, Tess Neilson. "There was a bigger turnout than what we were expecting, which was good," she said.

"We were hoping we would get 1700 or 1800 but at a quick count it looks like we got over 2300. We thought that we might not get those numbers because of the high cost of living."

For Ms Neilson the highlight of the day was walking around the homestead and getting positive feedback from the event goers.

"The one word that seems to be across the board is the word community," Ms Neilson said. "Everyone seemed happy. I would say overall the vibe of the event was really good."

The main attraction for the annual event is always a regiment of redcoat reenactors who visit from Sydney. The reenactors dress up in military dress from the 1800's, show off their medals and weapons, ride their horses and even fire a cannon.

Everything on display at the homestead was tied to the history of Tocal Homestead and the land it sits on. Tocal Homestead was established 201 years ago in 1822. Since then the homestead has had four owners.

Ms Earle said that the majority of these owners used the homestead to farm and/or breed horses until in 1947 when it was changed into an educational facility after the previous owners passed away. "It's had a very busy agricultural history," Ms Earle said.

"It's been a matter of changing uses of the place. This is the most that it's ever been open to the public. We love people coming along and enjoying what we have to offer."

For Ms Neilson, displaying history in a family friendly way can help create long lasting bonds with family members and friends.

The history of Tocal Homestead and College was highlighted on the day through a number of history talks and the visiting historical reenactors.

As well as the talks there were a number of displays including sheep shearing, wood working and a display from a blacksmith who used tools from the 1800's to demonstrate how these jobs were done in a time before modern technology. Australian whip cracking champion Andrew Thomas also demonstrated his skills.

There were heritage clothing parades, machinery demonstrations, glass blowing and a petting zoo.